- 29 July, 2025
Karnataka, July 29, 2025: The tragic incident in Karnataka, where a 17-year-old girl allegedly killed her 12-year-old brother over a mobile phone dispute a few days ago, has raised alarming questions about the culture of mobile phone usage among adolescents.
This heartbreaking event underscores the potential dangers of mobile phone addiction, which can lead to severe consequences, not only for the individuals involved but also for their families and society at large.
Adding to this tragic narrative is another incident involving an eighth-grade student who died yesterday (July 28) by suicide after being denied a mobile phone to play games in Kerala.
The boy was reportedly upset because the device, which had been designated for his sisters to use for their online classes, was not available for him. His despair culminated in a tragic ending when he was later found hanging at home.
This incident occurred in Edatva Talavadi Grama Panchayat, in a family that had recently returned from abroad. The preliminary investigation suggests that this heartbreaking event was indeed a case of suicide, highlighting the intense emotional turmoil that can stem from mobile phone disputes.
Pervasiveness of Mobile Phones
Mobile phones have seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, transforming how we communicate, access information, and interact with the world. However, the growing reliance on these devices raises significant concerns, particularly regarding their impact on children and teenagers. Studies show that excessive mobile phone use correlates with a host of negative outcomes, such as addiction, diminished attention spans, and an increased risk of mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
The Karnataka and Kerala incidents serve as stark reminders of the potential repercussions associated with mobile phone use among the teenagers. Such events are not isolated; numerous cases illustrate that disputes over mobile phone usage can escalate into violence and even severe despair.
Research has established a dark connection between mobile phone addiction and aggressive behaviours in adolescents, indicating that the compulsive use of these devices can have dire consequences.
Understanding mobile phone addiction involves unravelling its complex and multifaceted nature. One of the primary contributing factors is the design of mobile phones and applications. These tools are deliberately engineered for engagement, often employing algorithms that exploit psychological vulnerabilities to keep users captivated. Social media platforms are particularly notorious for activating the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine—a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure—which often leads to compulsive usage patterns.
To avert tragic events and mitigate the risks associated with mobile phone addiction, parents and guardians must adopt a proactive approach towards regulating mobile phone use among teenagers.
Here are some practical guidelines:
1. Set Clear Boundaries : Establish designated times and locations for mobile phone usage (e.g., no phones at the dinner table or during family time) to encourage face-to-face interactions.
2. Monitor Activities : Keep track of the apps and content your children engage with. Utilizing parental control tools can help manage screen time effectively and ensure that children are not exposed to harmful content.
3. Encourage Open Communication : Foster an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences. This dialogue can help them navigate challenges they may encounter in the digital realm.
4. Educate on Risks : Regularly talk to your children about the potential dangers of excessive mobile use, including its connection to mental health issues and its potential to affect academic and social lives.
5. Recognize Signs of Addiction : Be vigilant for changes in behaviour indicative of mobile phone addiction, such as neglect of responsibilities, preoccupation with the phone, or increased irritability when separated from their device.
6. Promote Healthy Screen Habits : Encourage alternative activities that do not involve screens, such as sports, reading, or family outings, to create a balanced lifestyle.
7. Lead by Example : As role models, parents should practice healthy mobile phone habits. Demonstrating moderation can encourage children to follow suit.
The recent tragic incidents highlight the urgent need for heightened awareness and action regarding mobile phone usage among teenagers. Both the violence stemming from disputes over phones and the extreme sadness leading to suicide present a compelling case for parental vigilance. By taking proactive steps—setting boundaries, encouraging dialogue, and fostering healthier habits—parents can help ensure their children navigate the digital landscape safely and responsibly.
By Fr. Suresh Mathew
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